Bob, all I can relate are my two experiences in Colorado in early September. In each case I think we got lucky and the weather was mild. This year we camped at 11-11,500 ft and had no snow. We did have ice on the tents one morning. I took a "winter" jacket but never ended up using it as I was expecting temps in the 20s at night but it never got that cold. As for daytime, I never went any heavier than a fleece, even above 13,000 ft. If I head back in September again I will still plan for 20s at night.

When are you planning on going as I think there is (obviously) a big difference between early and late September? Hopefully some others will chime in that have more first hand experience.

So where are you heading? Are you doing an extended backpack or breaking it up into a couple of short trips? Regardless, hope it works out for you.

MarkDidier wrote:So where are you heading? Are you doing an extended backpack or breaking it up into a couple of short trips? Regardless, hope it works out for you.

We'll spend the better part of a week doing dayhikes and acclimatizing. After that, we're planning on an eight-day backpack in the Weimanuche Wilderness. We're going to try to bag two or three fourteeners and some other notable peaks.

Well, the tickets are bought and paid for! Andy, Bob Johnston and I will be flying out together to Colorado where we'll rent a car and head for the San Juans. This will be my first trip to Colorado. I'm really looking forward to it!

BobSmith wrote:Well, the tickets are bought and paid for! Andy, Bob Johnston and I will be flying out together to Colorado where we'll rent a car and head for the San Juans. This will be my first trip to Colorado. I'm really looking forward to it!

Bob, I'm excited for you! Um...this being the San Juans, bring a helmet. The "souvenir handholds" like to dislodge themselves.

San Juan 13ers in September? Be ready to fall in LOVE. That's my best advice!

Enjoy yourself!

Sarah

Sarah speaks no lie, Bob!!! Hands down, probably the best month to visit, especially with your itineary. In Colorado, at least in my experience, a good, light, waterproof shell will go a long way towards your comfort level up high. I have an 8-year old Marmot Precip shell I still use with a single, long-sleeve shirt underneath or regular cotton t-shirt if it's warm. Works wonderfully. I used the same jacket treking up the Kahiltna a few years back even.

Bit of advice on Vestal: the class-3 backside 'regular' route is hard to follow. It's poorly cairned as that entire south side is loose, a bit on the rotten side and crumbly. Completely opposite from the North Face. Just take care and mark your path or note certain features (what I do). Hiking up into Vestal Basin is a bit of a bear too. Lots of deadfall. You're gonna fall in love with the San Juan's, buddy!